29-11-11, 01:34 PM
A good quality tool is important, sure. That said, I've used Lidl stuff and it's generally pretty good for the money. 
More important is to use a tapered tap - for starting threads - rather than a bottoming or plug tap, which are used to finish thread cutting at the bottom of a hole. The two types are shown here:
![[Image: P1070046.jpg]](http://i10.photobucket.com/albums/a111/GTX123/P1070046.jpg)
I've done several AIS removals using this very tap:
![[Image: P1070045.jpg]](http://i10.photobucket.com/albums/a111/GTX123/P1070045.jpg)
You won't have room to use the tap holder in your Lidl set. Turn the tap with an open-end spanner instead but be careful to keep the tap vertical and avoid side-loading it as you go. Obviously you know that you need to grease the tap and wind it back every 1/2 turn to clear swarf.
More important is to use a tapered tap - for starting threads - rather than a bottoming or plug tap, which are used to finish thread cutting at the bottom of a hole. The two types are shown here:
I've done several AIS removals using this very tap:
You won't have room to use the tap holder in your Lidl set. Turn the tap with an open-end spanner instead but be careful to keep the tap vertical and avoid side-loading it as you go. Obviously you know that you need to grease the tap and wind it back every 1/2 turn to clear swarf.